City releases text of letter reinstating East Providence Budget Commission

EAST PROVIDENCE — The City of East Providence Monday, April 22, released the text of the letter sent to it and the Budget Commission by State Director of Revenue Rosemary Booth Gallogly reinstating the Commission’s oversight of all personnel matters.

The move by Director Gallogly, which came in written form Thursday, April 18, was seen by some as a response to City Manager Peter Graczykowski’s decision to place East Providence Police Chief Joseph Tavares on administrative leave pending an investigation in his action’s leading the department. Several complaints were filed against Chief Tavares during his three-and-a-half year tenure in the position.

According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Chief Tavares remains on leave while the investigation into those claims and a review of his performance is completed. Major Christopher Parella continues as acting chief, a position Mr. Graczykowski placed him in upon his initial decision to place Chief Tavares on leave Monday, April 15.

Below is the content of Director Gallogly’s letter to the city:

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS
Department of Revenue
Rosemary Booth Gallogly, Director
One Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908-5855
April 18, 2013
East Providence Budget Commission
City of East Providence
145 Taunton Avenue
East Providence, RI 02914
Dear East Providence Budget Commission:
At the March 28, 2013 meeting, the East Providence Budget Commission (EPBC) delegated its authority under RI Gen. Laws 45-9 to the City Council, School Committee, City Manager and Superintendent, in order to reinstate their authority as provided by the City Charter and Code of Ordinances. Effective immediately, I am rescinding that delegation of authority for all personnel matters. All personnel actions will need to be approved by the EPBC until further notice.
Sincerely,
Rosemary Booth Gallogly
Director
Director
CC: Kathleen Waterbury, Human Resources Director
Kimberly Mercer, Superintendent of Schools
School Committee